p.1 #1 · What is a good beginner's lighting setup?
Hello!
I've decided to take the plunge into the world of lighting. I've never really used any lighting equipment before, but want to broaden my abilities, and so have decided to try some stuff out. With that being said, I don't want to spend more than $200-$300, to ease my way gently into it. My question then is this: What should I buy to start? Here's a bit of info that should help:
I will primarily be using it for portraiture
I would like it to be portable
It needs to be versatile, long-lasting, and somewhat easy to operate.
p.1 #4 · What is a good beginner's lighting setup?
At that budget, I'd start with borrowing stuff to see what you like, then create a business plan that includes a small start up loan to get what you want.
There is a link to a "starving student" kit that will fit your budget. Probably will order one myself. Keep in mind I am a total newb also so I can't say whether or not if the kit is a good deal.
p.1 #6 · What is a good beginner's lighting setup?
If you are just starting out, I would very highly recomend you find lights that have modeling lights included. This will aid you by allowing you to "see" the light as you are working. Westcott has a 200 w/s mono light that has really good reviews. Each mono light is $229. You can start with 1 and use a reflector for fill. Later add a second for fill, then a 3rd for seperation.
p.1 #7 · What is a good beginner's lighting setup?
The strobist kits mentioned above are ppretty good. I bought one to use with a 580 ex already owned and found all the stuff to be of good quality. Not the best, but you arent paying top end prices either. I dont see needing to replace any of the parts for quite some time. If you g the studio/mono light path i'd look at the alien bees lights. They are highly regarded and not much more expensive than the less recommended entry level brands. I didn't go this way after seeing what the capabilities of the speedlights really are on places like strobist.com. Speedlights are s portable and light, its a lot less work to get them ou and mess with them than it is the studiostuff.
